Voicing concern over the deteriorating security situation in Palestinian, India has said that dialogue is the only viable option for a durable and comprehensive peaceful solution of the issue.
India's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Tanmaya Lal said here on Tuesday that ‘New Delhi firmly believes that dialogue is the only viable option in the search for a just, durable and comprehensive peaceful solution of the Palestinian issue’.
"Regrettably, the security situation continues to deteriorate. The imperative need is of restraint and moderation," Lal said at the General Assembly annual debate on the 'Question of Palestine'.
"We hope that both sides will demonstrate the necessary political will to return to the negotiations," Lal added.
He further said that ‘New Delhi is hopeful of the early resumption of a peaceful dialogue between the two sides’.
He cited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message on the occasion of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People in which he reiterated India's support for the cause of Palestine and solidarity with the Palestinian people for their struggle for a sovereign, independent state living side by side and at peace with Israel.
Lal said that PM Modi reaffirmed India's continued support to the development and nation-building efforts of Palestine by extending technical and financial assistance.
India recently enhanced its contribution to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees to $1.25 million. India also contributed $ 4 million to the National Early Recovery and Reconstruction Plan for Gaza, with the Indian government helping set up two vocational training centers in Yatta and Hebron.
Meanwhile, marking the International Day of Solidarity on November 29 with the Palestinian people, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called on the world to reaffirm commitment to upholding the rights of the Palestinian people and working to build a future of peace, justice, security and dignity for Palestinians and Israelis alike.
In his message on the Day, the Secretary-General said that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a “long-standing, gaping wound that has fed tension and conflict throughout the Middle East.”
With PTI Inputs
